Sebastopol Goose History

The Sebastopol goose originated in southeastern Europe. While sources do not agree on the precise location, they all point to the region around the Black Sea. They were named after Sebastopol, a Russian city from which they were imported to the United States. The breed was developed from the wild Graylag goose which is native to Europe, and was recognized by The American Poultry Association in 1938.

The Sebastopol is readily identified by its feathers. Long, soft-quilled, curling feathers drape elegantly from its wings, body and tail. This modification in plumage is an example of breeding for a specific trait. The white variety of the Sebastopol is best known. Both males and females have pure white feathers that contrast with their bright blue eyes and orange bills and feet. Juveniles often have traces of gray. There are also gray and buff color varieties.

Sebastopols are medium-sized geese, weighing 12 - 14 pounds when mature. They have large, rounded heads, prominent eyes, slightly arched necks, and keelless breasts. The plumage of the head and upper two-thirds of the neck is normal, while that of the breast and underbody is elongated and well-curled. The soft, fluffy feathers of the back, wings and tail have flexible shafts, are attractively spiraled, and in good specimens are so long that they nearly touch the ground. The curled feathers prevent flight making them easier to confine. Sebastopols produce 25-35 eggs annually. They have a quiet and pleasant disposition.

For the full article, visit https://livestockconservancy.org/index.php/heritage/internal/sebastopol